Scott Alexander critiques the medical system's preference for expensive prescription sleep aids like Ramelteon over cheaper alternatives like melatonin, while sharing interesting facts about melatonin's uses. Longer summary

Scott Alexander discusses Ramelteon, a prescription sleep medication that mimics melatonin. He compares it to over-the-counter melatonin, highlighting the absurdity of the medical system that creates expensive prescription drugs when cheaper, effective alternatives exist. The post criticizes the pharmaceutical industry and medical practice for overlooking simple solutions like melatonin. Scott also shares interesting facts about melatonin, including its potential uses beyond sleep aid. Shorter summary